Dem cites health, bows out of So. IL congressional race

Tue, 29 May 2012 13:56:53 CDTBy: AP

Congressman Jerry Costello says he won't reconsider his decision to step aside and not seek re-election. Costello made that statement after the Democratic nominee to fill his southern Illinois congressional seat said he is dropping out of the race for medical reasons. Costello says the decision by Brad Harriman to withdrawal from the 12th Congressional District race was understandable. Harriman says he has a noticeably worsening neurological condition that now requires surgery. The former regional education administrator didn't disclose the ailment he says he's e ndured since 2010, although he says it isn't life-threatening. Harriman had been challenging Republican Jason Plummer for the seat Costello is leaving. Costello says he would co-chair the selection committee to find another candidate and that those discussions would begin soon.